Top 27 Places to Visit in Vadodara

Located on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, Vadodara (previously known as Baroda) is home to some of the most captivating architectural excellence. Whether you are an artist, a history buff or a curious traveler, the city will impress you with its vast array of attractions including grand monuments, museums, palaces, gardens, temples, markets, and lots more. There are also several budget-friendly hotels in Vadodara that offer you the best of hospitality and facilities.

Planning a trip to the cultural capital of Gujarat? Here is a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Vadodara:

1. Makarpura Palace,Vadodara

Makarpura Palace | #2 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Makarpura Palace was built in 1870 to serve as the summer palace for the royal family of the Gaekwads. Designed with an Italian touch of architecture, the ornate palace remained unused as the royal family favored the cooler climes of the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu over Vadodara to spend most of their summers. Today, the palace serves as a training school for the Indian Air Force, called No. 17 Tetra School. Visit this striking three-storied palace to witness its architectural brilliance and the lavish garden decorated with ivory fountains.

Location: Himmat Nagar, Makarpura

Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Entry Fee: ₹ 125 per person

2. Sayaji Garden,Vadodara

Sayaji Garden | #2 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad in 1879, Sayaji Garden spans an area of over 100 acres and is regarded as one of the largest public gardens in the western part of the country. The presence of the Sardar Patel Planetarium, the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery, a toy train, a zoo, an aquarium, and over 98 different species of trees make this garden one of the most enticing tourist places in Vadodara. The garden also has a one-of-its-kind gigantic floral clock with a 20-feet diameter dial.

Location: Vinoba Bhave Raod, Sayajiganj

Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Entry Fee: Free entry, but the attractions within the garden are chargeable

3. EME Temple,Vadodara

EME Temple | #3 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Also known as the Dakshinamurty Temple, the EME Temple is a Shiva shrine managed by the Indian Army. The temple boasts of remarkable contemporary architecture featuring aspects of the major religions of India. Covered with aluminium sheets, the geodesic structure of the temple presents a striking sight. Sculpture art dating back to the 7th to 15thcenturies define the beauty of the garden surrounding this temple. A visit to the temple will allow you to appreciate its unique concept.

Location: Fatehgunj

Timings: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm; closed on Sundays

4. Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery,Vadodara

The Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery has been designed on the lines of London’s Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. It showcases a rich collection of artifacts related to geology, archaeology, and natural history. You can also find here various items belonging to the personal collection of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who was instrumental in setting up this museum. The picture gallery houses several masterpieces by European artists and an excellent collection of original paintings by British landscape painters, Turner and Constable. The major attractions of Vadodara Museum include the skeleton of a blue whale and an Egyptian mummy.

Location: Sayaji Garden

Timings: 10:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed on government holidays

Entry Fee: ₹ 10 for Indians; ₹ 200 for foreign nationals

5. Surya Narayan Temple,Vadodara

Surya Narayan Temple | #5 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

As the name indicates, the Surya Narayan Temple is dedicated to the Sun God or Surya Devta. Designed in a grand manner, the temple highlights majestic architectural features. It is believed that if you offer your obeisance to the Sun God here, you will get relief from your ailments and causes of unhappiness. No wonder, the temple remains crowded with devotees all year long.

Location: Jambubet

Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

6. Sur Sagar Lake,Vadodara

Sur Sagar Lake | #6 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Located in the heart of the city, Sur Sagar aka Chand Talao is a mesmerizing lake that remains filled with water all year long. The cool ambiance of the lake provides the perfect excuse to spend some time near this water body. There’s even a concrete wall that runs along the perimeter of this lake, where you can sit during the evening hours and appreciate its serene beauty. But it is the 120-feet tall statue of Lord Shiva situated in the middle of the lake that makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vadodara.

Location: Mandvi

Timings: 24 hours

7. Sri Aurobindo Ashram,Vadodara

Sri Aurobindo Ashram | #7 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

The historic Aurobindo Ashram is the bungalow where the famous Indian philosopher, yogi, and nationalist, Sri Aurobindo Ghosh had stayed from 1894 to 1906. It is a spacious bungalow with 23 rooms and houses a study room, a library, and a sales emporium. What draws most people to this place is its calm environment, which is ideal for meditation, introspection, and spiritual healing. You can also find here various relics of Sri Aurobindo and all the books that have been written by and about him.

Location: Dandia Bazar

Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

8. Laxmi Vilas Palace,Vadodara

Laxmi Vilas Palace | #8 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

One of the most magnificent palaces in India, the iconic Laxmi Vilas Palace is the residence of the royal family of Baroda. Constructed in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the colossal palace is the largest private abode constructed till date and is four times larger than the Buckingham Palace in London. It is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architectural style and counts amongst the top tourist places to see in Vadodara. Among the major attractions of the palace are the Darbar Hall that features the Raja’s throne and ornate artwork, the Moti Baug Palace and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum.

Location: J. N. Marg

Timings: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays and public holidays

Entry Fee: ₹ 150 per person

9. Nyaya Mandir,Vadodara

Nyaya Mandir | #9 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Nyaya Mandir, which literally translates to the Temple of Justice, houses the District Court of Vadodara. Constructed in 1896 in the Byzantine style of architecture, the grand edifice has a central hall featuring a statue of the wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The centrally located structure is easily accessible from all parts of the city and is considered to be one of the top 10 places in Vadodara for tourist sightseeing.

Location: Chokshi Bazar

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

10. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple,Vadodara

Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple is a grand place of worship in the city of Vadodara dedicated to Shri Swaminarayan. The temple houses beautiful idols of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami, Shri Gopalanand Swami, and Shri Nilkanth Varni among others. Plan a visit to this temple to watch its gorgeous architecture and tranquil vibe.

Location: Atladara

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:30 pm

11. Khanderao Market,Vadodara

Khanderao Market is a grand edifice that adorns the cityscape of Vadodara. Constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1906, the building boasts of impressive architecture. At present, the building houses several important government administrative offices. Markets of flowers and fresh vegetables are held in the back garden of the building. A trip to this site will allow you to enjoy the beauty of this edifice while witnessing a slice of regular life in Vadodara.

Timings: 7:00 am to 8:30 pm

12. Maharaja Sayajirao University,Vadodara

Maharaja Sayajirao University | #12 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

The city of Vadodara houses one of the premier universities of the country, the Maharaja Sayajirao University. Popularly referred to as M. S. University or MSU, the institution was established in 1949. The main building of this educational institution displays a fine confluence of Indian and Byzantine architectural styles and houses the Faculty of Arts. The sprawling green campus and the impressive structure of the university make it a must-visit attraction for the tourists.

Location: Pratapgunj

Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

13. Kirti Mandir,Vadodara

Kirti Mandir | #13 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Kirti Mandir or the Temple of Fame is the cenotaph built for the members of the Baroda royal family. Situated near the Vishwamitri Bridge, it is an impressive structure complete with ornate carvings, balconies, terraces, and domes. You can find various murals adorning the walls of this structure that represent the battle of Mahabharata. The central arch of the structure displays a map of undivided India along with bronze structures of the sun, the moon, and the earth. The rooms of the Kirti Mandir display photographs and statues of the Gaekwad family.

Location: Sayajiganj

Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:30 to 5:30 pm

14. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum,Vadodara

Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum | #14 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

If you are an art aficionado, you must include the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum in your Vadodara itinerary. Located within the premises of the Lakshmi Vilas Palace, the museum is housed in a building that once served as the home-school for the Maharaja’s children. Today, you can find a treasure trove of art collections within the walls of this building. Major works of art by famous painters from Europe and India are displayed here, including a special collection of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma. The museum also has an impressive collection of flawless sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses in bronze and marble.

Location: Laxmi Vilas Palace Estate

Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Fee: ₹ 60 per person

15. Mandvi Gate,Vadodara

Mandvi Gate | #15 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

A major landmark in Vadodara, the Mandvi Gate remains in the city as a powerful testimony to the celebrated Mughal era. It is a square-shaped pavilion that features three arched openings on every side. In the ancient days, the place was used as a toll gate for traders and merchants. It was also the spot from where important announcements were made. Today, the gate stands as a historic structure and presents a beautiful sight when illuminated on festive nights.

Location: Mandvi

Timings: 24 hours

16. Nandalay Temple,Vadodara

Also known as Nandalay Haveli, the Nandalay Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna who is worshipped here as Shrinathji. The temple structure is decorated with ornate balconies and arches. The tastefully decorated interior complements the architectural beauty of the exterior. It is a place that exudes tranquil vibes that are enhanced through the slow chanting of hymns. Plan a visit to the temple during the morning or evening aarti to experience its spiritual aura.

Location: Rajesh Tower Road

Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm

17. Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden,Vadodara

Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden | #17 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Perfectly manicured green lawns and towering palm trees welcome you to the serenity of the Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden. The design of this 130-acre garden is inspired by the Vrindavan Gardens of Mysore. The main attraction of this garden is the row of perfectly aligned musical fountains that offer a mesmerizing show every evening. Thanks to the coordination water sprouts that shoot up against the background of lovely colors, the place never fails to delight adults and children alike.

18. Sardar Patel Planetarium,Vadodara

Sardar Patel Planetarium | #18 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

If the wonders of the sky and the universe fascinate you, the Sardar Patel Planetarium is the ideal place for you to visit in Vadodara. Situated within the boundary of the Sayaji Garden, the 200-seat planetarium boasts of a curved projection screen that emulates reality and has state-of-the-art sound systems. You can catch up on hour-long sessions about the astronomical history, solar system, and satellites at this place.

19. Hazira Maqbara,Vadodara

Hazira Maqbara | #19 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Hazira Maqbara is the mausoleum of Qutb-ud-din Muhammad Khan, who was the tutor of Prince Salim, Emperor Akbar’s son. Commonly referred to as Hazira, the mausoleum is built in typical Mughal architectural style. Designed with octagonal platforms and elaborate arches, the tomb is among the most enticing Mughal monuments present in Vadodara. There’s also an ancient step-well in the large compound of the mausoleum that is worth a visit.

Location: Danteshwar

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm

20. Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club,Vadodara

Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club | #20 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Gujarat’s oldest private golf club, the Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club boasts of a one-of-its-kind golf course wrapped around the monumental Lakshmi Vilas Palace. The 10-hole golf course offers exquisite views of the palace from every hole. This unique layout throws a challenge to even the most proficient golfers. A visit to the golf club is a must for all sports aficionados as the place has a badminton court, tennis courts, state-of-the-art gymnasium, and a swimming pool too.

Location: Laxmi Villas Palace Estate

Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm

21. Narmada Canal,Vadodara

Narmada Canal | #21 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

If you are looking for a serene place to enjoy a day-long outing or picnic in Vadodara, make your way to the Narmada Canal, which is located a short drive away from the city. The blue water of the canal and the scenic surroundings make for an ideal spot to spend some lovely moments in the company of your friends and family.

Distance from Vadodara city: 30 km (approx.)

22. Ajwa Water Park,Vadodara

Ajwa Water Park | #22 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Ajwa Water Park is one of the best water parks in Vadodara where you can indulge in day-long aquatic fun. The water park is located inside Ajwa Fun World and provides an enticing respite from the scorching heat of the Vadodara city. The place offers no less than 22 thrilling water slides to keep you engaged for the day. A sliding tower of 60 feet height is the highlight of this park. With amazing attractions like the Rain Dance, the Dark Hole Slide, Pendulum Slide, Space Bowl Slide, Body Slide, Super Car, Tube Slide, and lots more, you can look forward to a great time at this water park.

23. S-Cube Water Park,Vadodara

S-Cube Water Park | #23 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Spread over an area of 10 acres, the S-Cube Water Park is the perfect place to spend some fun moments with your family and friends. While here, you can indulge in 17 different rides, such as Reverse Splash, Double Screamer, Cyclone Bowl, Boomerango, and Blue Ripple among others. Touted as the largest entertainment complex of Gujarat, the water park complex also has an amusement park and a food island where you can pump up your energy. The park also has special attractions like a toy train, mini roller coaster, pirate ship swing, and boating area for the kids.

24. Champaner – Pavagadh Archaeological Park,Vadodara

Fancy a short one-day picnic from Vadodara? Head off to Champaner – Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a number of monuments. Speckled with palaces, mosques, temples, tombs, arched gateways, step-wells, residential complexes, granaries, tanks, and lots more, this archaeological park is one of the top Vadodara tourist places to visit. Some of the top attractions of this historic place include the Kalika Mata temple, the fort of Pavagadh, the palace of Mahmud Begada, Jama Masjid, Kevda Masjid and cenotaph, Navalakka temples, Sahar Ki Masjid, Makai Kothar, City Gate, Kabutarkhana pavilion, and the helical stepped well.

Location: Champaner

Timings: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Distance from Vadodara city: 50 km (approx.)

25. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary,Vadodara

Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary | #25 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Home to a wide variety of mammalian species, Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary makes for a great spot for a one-day picnic with your family and kids. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will be delighted to spot not just wild animals but a variety of reptiles and birds as well in this forest reserve. The sanctuary has two water reservoirs within its premises, which add to its aesthetic beauty. You can enjoy trekking and safari tours in this adventurous wildlife zone.

Location: Jambughoda

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm

Distance from Vadodara city: 80 km (approx.)

26. Kabirvad,Vadodara

Kabirvad | #26 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Kairvad, which is a grove of banyan tree located on an island on River Narmada. Spreading over 3 km, this grove holds much religious significance as it was the meditation spot of the famous saint Kabir. The place also has a temple nearby built in honor of the saint. Visit this place to enjoy a few moments of solitude and sanctity, away from the hustle-bustle of city life.

Location: Kabirvad

Distance from Vadodara city: 75 km (approx.)

27. Hathni Mata,Vadodara

Hathni Mata | #27 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Situated at a distance of about 80 km from the city center, Hathni Mata Waterfalls flows down from a green carpeted hillside. The road to the waterfall offers a scenic drive. During the monsoon season, the waterfall presents a breath-taking sight. Hathni Mata means the elephant mother. As per the local legend, there’s a rock that resembles a baby elephant and you can see it only if you venture out to the base of this waterfall. The place offers great opportunities for the shutterbugs to capture some incredible shots.

Location: Poyali

Distance from Vadodara city: 80 km (approx.)

Whether you are planning a solo trip to the city or going there with your family and friends, Vadodara will surely keep you enthralled with its numerous attractions. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy a lovely holiday here.

I am obsessed with old edifices, museums and different cultures. When not writing and editing stories, I love to explore forgotten ruins or indulge in gardening and cooking – the other things I'm passionate about. My motto in life is “Love what you Do and Do what you Love”, and that is what is driving me all through.

1 comment

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